Science-Fiction

Science Fiction is a branch of fiction that associates itself with ideas that are imagined and mainly innovated from science or technology. The genre is often related to futuristic settings. Science Fiction is largely based upon alternate possibilities and the phrase, "What if?" Science Fiction speculates the many possibilities that may happen.

Definition

Science Fiction is similar to its relative 'fantasy' but it is not entirely the same. The ideas that are portrayed withing science fiction are largely possible and is often associated with the laws of nature. Fantasy involves supernatural characteristics that are impossible e.g. Witchcraft and Wizardry; fantasy also includes mythincial creatures like Charlie the unicorn. Fantasy often lacks reality whereas Science Fiction has a presence of reality in most of its texts.

Sub-terms

Evolution of the Science-Fiction genre

Sub-genres

Hard Science Fiction

This subgenre provides accurate detail in sciences such as; physics, astrophysics and chemistry to allow readers to believe that advanced technology is in fact possible.

Time travel

As the title suggests, travelling through different timelines would be possible. Machines or vehicles are often associated with this subgenre as they are the objects capable of travelling through time. An example is the vehicle from back to the future.

Alternate history

This subgenre bases its root on events that may have turned out differently in the past. It is sometimes associated with time travel. Examples of alternate history; If the Nazis had won the war and have taken over the world, If America and Russia did face off each other during the cold war.

Military Science fiction

Military science fiction is set with the conflict between national, interplanetary or interstellar armed forces. These stories often include great detail on their military technology, rituals, and histories. Examples include; The starwars trilogy and Terminator.

Superhuman

Stories that associate themselves with superhuman genre deal with beings with abilities far greater than the normal human race. Choice is a widely expressed theme as it poses the question ‘what will you do with your powers?’ Examples of the superhuman genre include; Superman, Xmen trilogy, DC and MARVEL comics.

Apocalyptic

Apocalyptic stories concern itself with the idea of the end of civilization through war, epidemic, astronomic impact, ecological disaster, or mankind’s self-destruction. Examples of apocalyptic genres include; I am legend, Terminator trilogy, Priest, Zombie land.

Space opera

This subgenre often includes space voyages to other distant planets where they face off against another alien race. However, this is not the case if Earth is invaded by aliens. It focuses on action rather than science. Examples of space opera include; Battle: Los Angeles, Transformers.